Tähtitieteellinen
yhdistys Ursa is an amateur astronomical association with
more than 10 000 members. Ursa's primary functions are to advance
astronomical education and to promote interest in amateur astronomy.
www.ursa.fi
Tekes,
the National Technology Agency finances research and development (R&D)
projects of companies and universities in Finland. The funds are awarded
from state budget via the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Tekes coordinates
and finances Finnish participation in ESA. www.tekes.fi
Suomen
Akatemia, The Academy of Finland is an expert organisation
in research funding and science policy. The Academy’s object
is to promote high-level scientific research, including the space
research. www.aka.fi
The
European Space Agency ESA; The purpose of ESA is to exploit
the potential of new space technology within research and development
and to strengthen the technological competence of the industry in
member countries. According to its convention, ESA is involved in
space activities solely for peaceful purposes. www.esa.int
The
European Southern Observatory is an intergovernmental, European
organisation for astronomical research. It has ten member countries.
ESO operates astronomical observatories in Chile and has its headquarters
in Garching, near Munich, Germany. www.eso.org
